Itineraries for Your Trip to Dubrovnik
3 Days in Dubrovnik for First Timers
One of my happiest summers was spent exploring Dalmatia with my bestie. We explored several coastal towns including Korcula, Hvar, Split, and Zadar, but my standout highlight has to be Dubrovnik. The history-steeped city had everything we were after as curious tourists, from an iconic Old Town and home mountain to a laid-back bar scene and all manner of day trip opportunities. Based on my own adventures, I’ve honed this comprehensive itinerary for other first-timers, so you can discover Dubrovnik’s best bits in just three days.
There’s little summertime shade on the city walls, so wear a hat and bring water.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a walking tour of Dubrovnik’s UNESCO-listed Old Town.
Make a morning beeline for Dubrovnik’s historic Old Town, starting early to avoid the largest crowds. The well-preserved medieval complex is enclosed by ancient city walls—explore it all before the afternoon heat. The area is entirely pedestrian, so wear comfortable shoes.
The city’s coastal location makes it easy to keep cool with dip in the Adriatic Sea. Kayak tours offer a different perspective, and many include a visit to nearby snorkeling spots such as Betina Cave and Lokrum Island. Then, dive into Dubrovnik’s rich culinary scene, tasting local specialties such as black risotto (crni rižot) and green stew (zelena menestra).
Another Dubrovnik must-visit is the city’s home mountain, Mt. Srđ. Reach the peak by cable car or take the beginner-friendly hike of about an hour. At the top, you’ll find a Napeolonic fortress, plus panoramic views of the city and sea beyond.
After lunch, explore Dubrovnik’s scenic surroundings. Head a little further out of town and discover the charms of rural attractions such as Trsteno Arboretum and the Konavle Valley. Here, Game of Thrones fans can explore the city’s many filming locations—you’re sure to recognise King’s Landing, the Red Keep, and Blackwater Bay, amongst others.
Make your final day memorable by taking advantage of Dubrovnik’s many day trip options. Water babies can kick back on an Adriatic cruise, island hop around the Elaphites, or visit Mljet National Park, Croatia’s most forested island, to widen their perspective of coastal Dalmatia.
If you’re on limited time in the Balkans in general, consider using this time to cross the border into Montenegro or Bosnia-Herzegovina on a full-day tour to learn more about this region and its long history.
